Desert Ridge traveled to Highland on Friday night and came away with the 6A Central League title with a 21-7 the victory.

In a battle between two high-powered offenses, a defensive battle broke out.

The game did not feature much offense but Desert Ridge was able to capitalize on big plays and Highland mistakes.

Desert Ridge was methodical in its offensive approach, mixing up the run and the pass, but a big 60-yard touchdown pass in the second quarter separated them from the Hawks.

Highland struggled to mount any kind of offense as quarterback Kaleb Herbert was under duress most of the night. Meanwhile, the Hawks running game only mustered 30 yards.

Standout performers

Desert Ridge quarterback Matthew Purnell: He was relatively quiet on the night, but was effective and efficient. Purnell managed the offense and controlled the clock while going 6-for-7 including that 60-yard touchdown pass. 


Desert Ridge QB had a fairly quiet night, going 6-for-7 but he did heave a 60-yard touchdown strike in the Jaguars 21-7 victory over Highland.

Desert Ridge running back Lucas Wright: He was the workhorse for the Jaguars. Wright ran the ball 14 times and gained 61 yards. Wright was effective in helping Desert Ridge control the ball and carries of 10 and 11 yards helped move the chains.

Quotes of the game

Desert Ridge quarterback Matthew Purnell on winning the region crown: "Obviously good seeding, we like that but we don't really care. We're just going to focus on what we have next week and play Desert Ridge football."

Purnell on his performance: "Just did my job, managed the offense. Big plays were made by all my skill players, the line, great job on pass pro. Our receivers they made plays I couldn't have done it without them and Coach Hathcock called a great game."

Stat of the game

The Hawks struggled on offense throughout the night but quarterback Kaleb Herbert was efficient. Herbert was 22-for-39 with one touchdown pass.

Up next

Both Desert Ridge, No. 3 in AIA rankings, and Highland, No. 6, await the 6A playoffs, which are set to begin on Friday. The AIA will announce all the 6A matchups on Saturday morning.

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